1 Corinthians 4 Commentary
In addition to jealousy and quarrels, it appears there is also boasting. One believer feels superior to the other, or one thinks this apostle is better than the other. It’s the same sin.
One’s level of righteousness is a gift from God. No one should boast. Don’t even set one level of righteousness against another. Don’t bring into conflict the workings of the Spirit in two different individuals. Don’t say, this performance (by the Spirit) is better than that performance (by the same Spirit). How dare?
The great apostle won’t judge himself either. There is a better Judge. Simply put, don’t boast. Don’t give yourself a higher slot; don’t give yourself a lower slot. Stay aware from the Judge’s chamber. Don’t even volunteer information about your brother or your sister. You aren’t a witness.
Leave the leaders alone. The leaders must be faithful to their master – the LORD Jesus Christ.
“You have begun to reign – and that without is!” There is no sarcasm. Paul has praised the LORD for their faith. Chapter 1 verses 5 to 7. But the target is blamelessness! Chapter 1 verse 8. You easily understand why Paul wants to stamp out the remaining dark spots in the church. It is always work-in-progress! He has just acknowledged God’s faithfulness to His church even in the absence of the apostles.
Verse 9 explains it: Apostles are slaves. At the palace, they are given orders to match out into the vineyard. As envoys of the King, they expect a red carpet but none is given. They get mud. Real slaves! They are fools for Christ! Verse 10. Won’t the church learn something from the apostles? Timothy is dispatched to again testify to the realities of the Christian walk – the walk that Paul represents.
Verse 19 talks about power. It has nothing to do with miracles. A step away from the guidance of the Spirit is a step away from God’s power at work through the same Spirit. Since you have distanced yourself from the Spirit, you won’t probably be under His power.
Paul wants the church to know the difference. Out there is emptiness – utter emptiness, vanity, and meaninglessness. That’s the space you venture into when you entertain rebellion against the fruit of the Spirit – arrogance instead of humility; or dissensions, factions, and envy instead of love, peace, joy, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Now there is sarcasm. Let’s see what power these people have! And there is none! A trip into Wickedland strips you of reason. And when Wisdom is neglected, wisdom disappears.
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